The Weekly Press Week of 12 12 13

BATON

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

ROUGE,

LOUISIANA

VOL. 38 • NO. 19 • FREE

A PEOPLE’S PUBLICATION

Colin Powell Pitches SinglePayer Health Care in US

Chancellor James L. Llorens on the Death of Mr. Nelson Mandela

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell marveled at the success of single-payer health care in places such as Canada, South Korea and across Europe.

Southern University Chancellor Dr. James L. Llorens stated the world has lost the embodiment of courage and the commitment to the belief that freedom is worth giving one’s life.”

WASHINGTON—Former Secretary of State Colin Powell has waded into the health care debate with a broad endorsement of the kind of universal health plan found in Europe, Canada and South Korea.

“I am not an expert in health care, or Obamacare, or the Affordable Care Act, or however you choose to describe it, but I do know this: I have benefited from that kind of universal health care in my 55 years of public life,” Powell said, according to the Puget Sound Business Journal, last week at an annual “survivors celebration breakfast” in Seattle for those who, like Powell, have battled prostate cancer. “And I don’t see why we can’t do what Europe is doing, what Canada is doing, what Korea is doing, what all these other places are doing.”

Europe, Canada and Korea all have a “single-payer” system, in which the government pays for the costs of health care.

Some Democrats who strongly advocated for, and failed to get, a single-payer system in the 2010 Affordable Care Act, still believe the current law doesn’t go far enough to reform the US health system.

A retired four-star general and former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Powell told the audience about a woman named Anne, who as his firewood supplier, faced a healthcare scare of her own. Anne asked Powell to help pay for her healthcare bills, as her insurance didn’t cover an MRI she needed as a prerequisite to being treated for a growth in her brain. In addition, Powell’s wife Alma recently suffered from three aneurysms and an artery blockage. “After these two events, of Alma and Anne, I’ve been thinking, why is it like this?” said Powell.

“We are a wealthy enough country with the capacity to make sure that every one of our fellow citizens has access to quality health care,” Powell. “(Let’s show) the rest of the world what our democratic system is all about and how we take care of all of our citizens.”

Powell, who has taken heat from Republicans for twice endorsing President Obama’s election and reelection bids, said he hopes universal healthcare can one day become a reality in the U.S. “I think universal health care is one of the things we should really be focused on, and I hope that will happen.”

Southern University mourns the passing of former South Africa President Nelson Mandela, one of the most historic figures in a peoples’ fight to be free.

“There are no words to capture the life and bravery of Nelson Mandela,” said Southern University Chancellor Dr. James L. Llorens. “The world has lost the embodiment of courage and the commitment to the belief that freedom is worth giving one’s life.”

“Southern University was also fortunate have then-President Leon Tarver to have established a relationship with Mr. Mandela that led to him accepting our re-

quest to name our School of Public Policy in his honor and to have Mr. Mandela come to Southern for the dedication ceremony.”

(Nelson Mandela came to Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, La., on May 11-12, 2000, to be part of the dedication of the Nelson Mandela School of Public Policy. He also was the graduation speaker on May 12.)

For additional information, please contact either Edward Pratt or Erin Fulbright with the Southern University Media Relations Office at (225) 771-4545 or (225) 771-3907 respectively.

Letter from The Louisiana Black Publisher’s Association

Nelson Mandela was master on forgiveness. South Africa’s first black president spent nearly a third of his life as a prisoner of apartheid, yet he sought to win over its defeat guardians.

ICON OF FREEDOM The Baton Rouge Weekly Press Salutes the Life and Legacy of Nelson Mandela

By Mydra L. Kelly President Nelson Mandela quoted the following poem of Marianne Williamson’s as a part of his moving inaugural speech: Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.

We ask ourselves Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented,

JAGUARS CLAIM SWAC TITLE

fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small Does not serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking So that other people won’t feel insecure around you.

We are all meant to shine, As children do. We were born to make manifest The glory of God that is within us.

It’s not just in some of us; It’s in everyone.

And as we let our own light shine, We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we’re liberated from our own fear, Our presence automatically liberate others.

How befitting…for this is exactly what the life of Nelson Mandela did; his presence, his existence, his sacrifices liberated others. His 27 years of captivity See MANDELA, on page 2

The Louisiana Black Publishers Association would like to acknowledge our most sincere condolences to the family of our dear brother Nelson Mandela and all of our brothers and sisters in South Africa. As Africa, America and people around the nation and the world mourn the loss and remember the life and the legacy of this great man; we would be far remised to not join in this triumphant celebration.

Nelson Mandela was the epitome of strength, courage, character, and all that speaks to one man standing in the linkages of life for others. As the African

BUSINESS

See LETTER, on page 7

Louisiana Unemployment Insurance Claims Report Dec. 6, 2013 BATON ROUGE – Initial unemployment insurance claims for the week ending Nov. 30, 2013, decreased to 1,850 from the previous week’s total of 2,854.

The over-the-week decrease in initial claims was due to the shorter work-week for the Thanksgiving and Acadiana holidays. Initial claims were below the comparable week ending Dec. 1, 2012, figure of 4,048.

The four-week moving average of initial claims decreased to

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LOCAL

Proverb states, “I am because you are and you are because I am… so much of who we all are and forever will be is because of the sacrifices and contributions that this mighty man made.”

While we are saddened that the mortal man has left us; we know that as this life is planted, it is simply a seed that will continue to grow for generations and generations to come. We are both grateful and blessed that God lent us this special creation for ninetyfive years to walk the earth and impact so many. We are truly

HEALTH

2,444 from the previous week’s average of 2,558.

Continued unemployment insurance weeks claimed for the week ending Nov. 30, 2013, decreased to 22,425 from the previous week’s total of 22,839.

Continued weeks claimed were below the comparable week ending Dec. 1, 2012, figure of 30,723.

The four-week moving average of continued weeks claimed See CLAIMS, on page 3

RELIGION Baton Rouge, LA - Carolyn Gee will host her annual Toy and New Clothing Giveaway at Greater Mt. Canaan Baptist Church located at 5820 Evangeline Street and Rev. Levie “Ash” Wright is the pastor. .See Page 6

INDEX

GAS FOR GUNS” EXCHANGE In an effort to reduce the number It is what Southern quarterback Dray Joseph said he did throughout his career on The Bluff. It is also what the Jaguars did late against Jackson State in the Toyota Southwestern Athletic Conference Championship Game Saturday....

See Page 8

of unsecured firearms on Baton Rouge streets, Baton Rouge Police Chief Carl Dabadie and Circle K are joining forces for a “Gas for Guns” exchange program on Saturday, Dec. 14 ...See Page 2

MILEAGE RATES FOR BUSINESS

The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2014 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes...See Page 5

QUIT-SMOKING FOR YOUR HEART Smoking is the leading cause of

preventable death world-wide.

About half of all long-term smokers will die because of their addiction.

But the good news is that nearly 70% of current smokers want to quit, says the CDC....See Page 7

Local & State............................2 Commentary.............................4 Business....................................5 Religion....................................6 Health.......................................7 Sports.......................................8

CLASSIFIED Buying or selling a service, looking for for a good job? Check out the classifeds .

THEWEEKLYPRESS.COM Celebrating 38 Years Of Service To The Baton Rouge Community 225.775.2002

Page 2 • The

Weekly Press • Thursday, December 12, 2013

The Weekly Press Newspaper is a published weekly in Baton Rouge and distributed every Thursday with a circulation of 7,500.

Subscription rates are $65.00 per year for Louisiana residents; $72.00 for one year for out-of-state residents; half price for six months subscription: and $1.00 per single copy.

STATE & LOCAL

Circle K And BRAVE Host “Gas For Guns” Exchange On Saturday, Dec. 14

marge's

caliber handguns, so the incentives are higher for them compared to the smaller handguns.

This year’s gun buyback program was made possible by a donation from the Circle K Corporation and matching funds from local law enforcement drug seizure and asset forfeitures.

At the Living Faith Christian Center, located at 6375 Winbourne Avenue, officers will accept the firearms without asking questions about the donors’ identities or how they came to be in possession of the guns. The exchange program assists non-commercial, private citizens and is limited to two firearms per person until all gas cards have been exhausted.

Donors arriving by car should place their firearms in the trunk.

Donors arriving on foot should place their firearms in a sealed or closed container, such as a bag, backpack or box.

Donors who are uncomfortable taking a firearm to an exchange site can call the local Police and Sheriff station at any time to make arrange-

A THOUGHT: A scepter shall arise out of Jacob. Balaam JUST SAYING THANKS to the many who contributed money and other necessities to the American Red Cross and other agencies for the people in the Philippines.

There was so much devastation and so much that could be done to help the many who suffered destruction there. Especially do we empathize with those who live here and have Marge relatives there. It was quite an anxiety in not Lawrence knowing what is going on. Thanks for sharing what you have to help others. (It may be our time to receive help tomorrow.)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Claudia J. Robinson and Eric Addison.

Oh When the Saints... go marching in!! And did they march and strut their stuff on last Sunday against South Carolina. I am not sure the odd on favorite but I do know the game was played with fervor and a determination to win. It was like the good ole days when the song meant victory after victory!! The defense and offense played well and the Saints and the aunts are happy.

The Jaguar Nation was happy too this weekend. It was a revenge match and everybody knew it, but the glory days had to come back on the bluff!! The Nation had not had a championship in a decade and that was ridiculous, because SU is too great with pride and dignity in sports for such a drought. We laughed and screamed and screamed and laughed. How about the Jags, eh? Oh how much laughter is on the bluff and throughout the SWAC!! So sorry, JSU!!

A Christmas Prayer (From the Trenches)

By Cyril Winterbotham Not yet for us may Christmas bring Good-will to men, and peace; In our dark sky no angels sing, Not yet the great release For men, when war shall cease.

So must the guns our carols make, Our gifts must bullets be, For us no Christmas bells shall wake; These ruined homes shall see No Christmas revelry.

In hardened hearts we fain would greet The Babe at Christmas born, But lo, He comes with pierced feet, Wearing a crown of thorn, His side a spear has torn.

For tired eyes are all too dim, Our hearts too full of pain,

See GUNS, on page 3

See MARGE, on page 7

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Correction Policy The Baton Rouge Weekly Press strives to be fair and accurate. The newspaper corrects any significant errors of fact brought to the attention of the editor. If you think an error has been made, call 225-775-2002

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In an effort to reduce the number of unsecured firearms on Baton Rouge streets, Mayor-President Melvin L. “Kip” Holden, District Attorney Hillar Moore, III, Sheriff Sid Gautreaux, Baton Rouge Police Chief Carl Dabadie and Circle K are joining forces for a “Gas for Guns” exchange program on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the Living Faith Christian Center, 6375 Winbourne Avenue.

The “no questions asked” gun buyback program, in partnership with the Circle K Corporation, the Baton Rouge Area Violence Elimination (BRAVE) program and local and federal law enforcement agencies, will offer from $50 to $300 in gas coupons for each qualifying handgun and assault weapon.

Mayor Holden said the program would allow residents to safely dispose of firearms and ammunition that they no longer want to keep at their homes.

Unsecured guns can be especially dangerous to children, the Mayor said. He also noted that every year, crimes are committed with unsecured guns that have been stolen or used without the owners’

Mandela

permission.

Similar Gas for Guns program in Baton Rouge collected 262 unsecured guns in 2010 and 165 firearms in 2011; prompting local officials to bring the program back this year just in time for the holidays.

During the exchange program, any functional, non-replica pistol or revolver smaller than 0.380 caliber can be exchanged for gas cards totaling $50. Pistols that are 0.380 caliber or greater can be swapped for gas cards totaling $100 in value.

The program will pay $300 in gas cards for each “Assault Style” rifle, as long as they are a functional variant of an automatic or semiautomatic rifle that is currently in use by military forces with a caliber of 9 mm, 7.62 mm or 5.56 mm. Any other firearm or ammunition may also be dropped off for safe disposal and destruction by law enforcement without a gas card exchange.

District Attorney Moore said the exchange program is offering the highest incentive for assault rifles because they are the most expensive and are the weapons of choice for many criminals. Likewise, criminals also prefer large-

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also showed the world that freedom can sometimes ring from behind prison bars loud enough to break chains that are binding…chains of apartheid, chains of discrimination, chains of racism and hatred, chains of ignorance, violence, and shame.

Then out of the shadows of darkness arises liberty and justice for all!

Like the portrayal in movie 12 years a slave, Nelson Mandela was born a free man; intelligent, articulate and courageous; then he found himself locked up for simply trying to do the right thing. All he ever wanted was for all blacks in his country to have the same liberties as everyone else.

He was a man on a mission and his motive was with one cause;

freedom…

And under Mandela’s leadership this indeed happened as the government in South Africa embarked on the twin paths of reconciliation and reconstruction in a society that had been sorely divided by over a century of racial segregation and apartheid. At the end of his four hour statement to the courts Nelson Mandela stated: “During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportu-

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Chit Chat

nities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.”

It is said that these words sum up the guiding force by which he worked for liberation of South Africa.

Nelson Mandela is a Legend to the people of South Africa and to all the people of the world. He lived a colorful life that was not devoid of both hardship and personal failure. However, his was a story of faith, perseverance, and triumph.

He had mountain top experiences as well as valley lows. He himself is quoted as saying “There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again, and again before we reach the mountain top of our desires” Nelson Mandela was in many ways a very ordinary man, yet it was clear that his life was anything but ordinary. Instead it was purposed and preordained for something greater. Like Joseph in the Bible, he went from the prison to the palace and he had constant reminders that he was merely a man. A man who seemingly failed at many things he loved before ultimate success came; career, marriage, honor. Still it did not stop him from being faithful, believing and being that he was called to be; regardless to the title he had or the physical location where he took up residency… even behind bars.

He failed law exams and had

two failed marriages. He wrestled with physical challenges and the opinions of his peers, yet he stood firm knowing who he was and what he had to do. He held many titles and won several prestigious awards including the Nobel Peace Prize.

He took on the similitudes of the words of the late great Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who said,” If a man has not found something worth dying for, he’s not fit to live”.

I can imagine Mandela also saying, if you have not found something worth losing your freedom for it, then freedom can’t be worth much.

Mandela believed this and he would not sell out his own convictions or those of the people of South Africa by compromising freedom.

Nelson Mandela realized that freedom cost something and so did forgiveness. So while he was a peaceful and non-violent leader like King and many others; this did not justify that he did not mandate that something was giving in exchange for this “forgiveness” yes he wanted reconciliation in place of recrimination, but he also demanded a guilty plea from Whites in South Africa before pardon was granted.

Mandela, one of thirteen children in his family; knew what it felt like to be lodged in the middle. He knew that sometimes this meant understanding and utilizing skills that were strategic and not familiar in order to get the things that you wanted. This is also what gave him the tenacity to try every possible method to destroy apartheid

peacefully, though he, too, realized the ineffectiveness of nonviolence while considering the conditions, which existed in his country. Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela’s tribal name meant troublemaker or to bring trouble upon oneself, so I guess some might say that he lived up to his name.

Yet the scholar who read “Invictus” while behind prison walls; made the same declaration as the author William Ernest Henley to himself “I am the master of my fate and I am the Captain of my soul.

On 10 May 1994 Nelson Mandela made his inaugural presidential speech from the Union Building, Pretoria: “We have at last, achieved our political emancipation. We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender, and other discrimination.

Never, never, and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another... Let freedom reign. God Bless Africa!”

May this great man who has walked this land for ninety five years leaving it better because his passed this way; now take his rest and gain the crown that is only fit for the king that he is. Thanks you for all of the contributions that you made to Africa, to America to our Nation and to our World. We salute you.

The Baton Rouge Weekly Press

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Thursday, December 12, 2013 • The Weekly Press • Page 3

Repticon Returns for Its Final Expo in Baton Rouge for 2013

State Representative Regina Ashford Barrow to Host 8th Annual “District 29 The Gift Of Christmas” Giveaway BATON ROUGE – State Representative Regina Ashford Barrow (D), Baton Rouge, will host her 8th annual “District 29 The Gift of Christmas Giveaway” at the Interdenominational Faith Assembly Church, located at 5045 Greenwell Street, Baton Rouge, LA, on Monday, December 16, 2013, at 6:00pm. Barrow’s annual Christmas Giveaway program gives hundreds of toys to families in District 29.

“Christmas represents the spirit of giving and the capacity to make others happy. The purpose of this great event is two-fold. The first purpose is to provide constituents of District 29 with information regarding services available by the state and non-profit organizations. The second purpose is to make Christmas brighter and happier for children and families of District 29”, Representative Barrow said.

This year’s giveaway is slightly different however. Keeping the spirit that it is “better to give than to receive,” Representative Barrow has also asked each participant to bring one can-good or other non-perishable item to this

Guns

BATON ROUGE LA Herpetorama, Inc., dba Repticon, promoters of reptile and exotic animal expos, brings its unique blend of vendors, breeders, and educators to the Lamar Dixon Exposition Center in Gonzales, LA, for the last time this year. Just south of Baton Rouge and one hour north of New Orleans, the expo brings thousands of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, spiders, and small exotic animals to area enthusiasts. Top breeders and vendors will offer animals, merchandise, cages, supplies, live and frozen feeders, and much more, as well as their expert advice where needed.

In addition, world-class seminars by industry experts will educate and entertain.

Many of the seminars feature live animals with an opportunity for guests to interact with them. Free-entry raffles are

Rep. Regina Ashford Barrow year’s giveaway. At the end of the night, Rep. Barrow will make a special donation to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank in honor of the late Trevor Sims, the 11- year old boy whose wish to help the homeless created a lasting legacy.

As in past years, a short spiritual uplifting program will open the event. The night will conclude with each of the families present receiving a meal and the children receiving gifts.

For information on the Christmas Giveaway, please contact Rep. Barrow’s office at 225.359.9400.

your car to Living Faith Christian Center, 6375 Winbourne Avenue, from 1 p.m. till 3 p.m.

If you don’t come by car, bring the weapon in a sealed container such as a bag, box, book bag, etc.

Follow the instructions given to you by the law enforcement officers.

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ments for unwanted firearm and ammunition collection. However, gas cards will not be provided any other time than the “Gas for Guns” program date.

The East Baton Rouge “Gas for Guns” exchange program is made possible by the following community partners: Circle K Corporation, Mayor-President of East Baton Rouge Parish, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Baton Rouge City Police Department, Baton Rouge City Constable’s Office, District Attorney’s Office,

Louisiana State Police, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Baton Rouge Crimestoppers and Living Faith Christian Center.

Baton Rouge Area Violence Elimination (BRAVE) is designed to reduce juvenile crime in the 70805 ZIP code through the strengthening of police-community relationships, encouraging the community to unite against violence, promoting school engagement and connecting families to community resources.

For more information, please visit our website at www.bravebtr.com.

Claims

PROCEDURES FOR TURNING IN A GUN FOR GAS Bring the gun in the trunk of

from page 1

increased to 22,539 from the previous week’s average of 22,536.

For more detailed information on occupational groups of unemployment insurance claimants, visit Louisiana’s employment homepage at www.laworks.net and select Labor Market Information.

The UI Weekly Claims Data webpage includes the following features: UI Weekly Claims Data

by Regional Labor Market Area and by Parish, UI Weekly Claims Data by Industry for Louisiana, UI Definitions and UI Monthly Claimant Characteristics by Parish. To access these products begin on Louisiana’s employment homepage and select Labor Market Information. Scroll down the LMI page to the LMI Products section and select Unemployment Insurance Claims.

The expo brought thousands of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, spiders, and small exotic animals to area enthusiasts. Top breeders and vendors will offer animals, merchandise, cages, supplies, live and frozen feeders, and much more, as well as their expert advice where needed.

held frequently during both days of the event, offering guests the opportunity to win coveted prizes.

The doors open to the general public at 10 a.m. on Saturday, closing at 5 p.m. On Sunday, the show hours are 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door and children under 5

are admitted free. Advance tickets may be purchased from our website at http://www.repticon. com/batonrouge.html.

Repticon, one of the world’s largest promoters of reptile and exotic animal shows, brings its special brand of excitement to the Lamar Dixon Exposition Center

in Gonzales, LA, on December 14 & 15, 2013, offering a great fall activity for all ages and for a very diverse range of enthusiasts.

Please contact Bonnie Miller with Repticon Promotions Team Leader at 501-272-4153 or by email at www.Repticon.com for additional information.

YOU WILL RECEIVE: Less than 38-caliber pistol $50 Circle K Gas Certificate 38-caliber or larger pistol $100 Circle K Gas Certificate Assault-style rifle - $300 Circle K Gas Certificate Please contact Shannon Landry, BRAVE program (225) 239-7835 or by email at this address bravebtr@gmail.com for additional information.

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This Is What We Have Been Waiting On. You Don’t Have To Go Anywhere

Lovett Road Park Dec. 12 from 6–9 p.m.

Gather the entire family and join BREC for the holidays as Santa makes his stop at Lovett Road Park. Take memorable photos with Santa and enjoy free holiday games, crafts, marshmallow roasting and a host of other holiday themed activities. Participants will also enjoy a holiday themed movie and concessions will be available for purchase.

You Don’t Have To Buy Anything This Exercise Program Is Designed For You, Right Where You Are.

For more information, visit brec.org or call 225-261-0126.

COMMENTARY Thursday, December 12, 2013 • The Weekly Press • Page 4

Affordable Care Act: A New Weapon in the Fight Against AIDS

By Marc H. Morial NNPA Columnist

severe burden of HIV, compared with other races and ethnicities.

“Blacks account for more new HIV infections, people estimated to be living with HIV disease, and HIV-related deaths than any other racial/ethnic group in the U.S.”

Blacks represent approximately 14 percent of the U.S. population, but according to the latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they account for an estimated 44 percent of new HIV infections and nearly half (44 percent ) of people living with HIV infection. Since the epidemic began, more than 260,800 Blacks have died of AIDS. Unless the course of the epidemic changes, at some point in their lifetime, an estimated 1 in 16 Black men and 1 in 32 Black women will be diagnosed with HIV infection. But more help than ever before is available, including new benefits in the Affordable Care Act that remove barriers to insurance coverage, and provide better coverage options for many people living with HIV. Starting January 1, 2014, no one can be denied health insurance or charged more because of a preexisting health condition, such as HIV. Insurers will also no longer be allowed to limit how much they will spend on a person’s medical care – over a year or a lifetime, including people living with HIV. And plans sold through the health insurance marketplaces must provide a minimum set of benefits that should prove helpful for HIV care, including prescription drugs, doctor visits, hospital care, mental health care and certain preventive services, including HIV tests.

The National Urban League also remains a major source of help. We are a partner organization in the Act Against AIDS Leadership Initiative (AAALI), a network of national-level organizations that focus on African Americans, black men who have sex with men (MSM), and the Latino commu-

- Kaiser Family Foundation Sunday, December 1, marked the 25th observance of World AIDS Day. It was a reminder of how far we have come since 1981 when several previously healthy gay men in Los Angeles were found to be infected with a mysterious and fatal immune deficiency. In the three decades since, the disease has claimed more than 35 million lives and has become a global pandemic. The World Health Organization reports that 35.3 million people worldwide are living with HIV today.

But, according to the United Nations, “New HIV infections among adults and children were estimated at 2.3 million in 2012, a 33 percent reduction since 2001…

AIDS-related deaths have also dropped by 30 percent since the peak in 2005 as access to antiretroviral treatment expands” Here in the United States, a little more than a million Americans are living with HIV infection today. Partly because of longer life expectancies for people with HIV, over the past decade, the number of people living with the infection in the U.S. has increased, while the annual number of new HIV infections has remained stable. But we should not mistake better manageability of the disease as an indication that it has become a minor problem. The pace of new infections continues at far too high a level – particularly among gay men, African Americans and Latinos. And African Americans continue to experience the most

See AIDS, on page 7

Obama, Black Political Establishment Criticized for Failure to Directly Address “Knockout Game” Violence WASHINGTON, DC -- In no uncertain terms, members of the Project 21 black leadership network are calling out many selfappointed black leaders, activists and journalists for thus far being unwilling to directly address the senseless “knockout game” violence terrorizing innocent Americans. Project 21 members are also thanking those others who are courageously speaking out against the unacceptable mayhem.

“The members of the racial grievance industry who’ve attempted to sanitize rather than denounce this chaotic behavior on the grounds that the offenders are black do so as an insult to all black Americans. In their sanitation process, they excuse the very behavior society shouldn’t excuse -- nor allow -- from any race. In effect, these people are saying blacks cannot be expected to live up to society’s standards and must be excused. This, however one wants to justify it, is offensive,” says Project 21 spokesman Derryck Green.

Green adds: “This behavior is also a violent illustration of two things: the effect of the disintegration of the traditional family structure and the degeneration of a sound moral value system.

Both of these things continue to plague segments of black Americans. This is inarguable and undeniable.”

Although not considered to be a new behavior, cities across America appear to have had a spike in seemingly random violence in which people are targeted for one-punch attacks meant to render the victim unconscious for sport. At least ten recent attacks in New York City are being attributed to the “knockout game.”

Some attacks also appear to be racially and religiously motivated, and known perpetrators are generally young black men.

Project 21 spokesman Kevin Martin is critical of black special interest groups he says are not

doing enough to stop the violence directed against people simply conducting everyday business.

Martin says: “The action by black youth playing this so-called game for cheap thrills is reprehensible in itself. But the relative silence by groups such as the NAACP, Rainbow PUSH and the National Urban League as well as the Congressional Black Caucus is equally reprehensible. It essentially gives quiet approval to those who carry out these assaults. The silence of these groups only give their critics more reason to call them out, and it gives heft to the charge that they are silent because there is nothing for them to gain politically in speaking out against those assaults.”

Project 21 spokesman Stacy Washington name names, specifically calling out President Barack Obama for choosing to sit out this racial issue after having waded into other controversies in the past. She says: “Most notably absent from the national discourse on the knockout attacks is President Obama. After seeing fit in the past to comment on an arrest of a black professor in Boston and a stand your ground case in Florida, numerous attacks on white citizens (some resulting in death) occurring around the country in what could be deemed an epidemic garners only silence from President Obama.”

Washington adds: “Since our President isn’t leading on this issue, members of Project 21 will.

I condemn the cowards that are perpetrating these criminal acts on innocent citizens and call on the media to repudiate these attacks and cease to call this deadly criminal activity a ‘game.’ The media needs to use its investigative powers to aid in the capture and prosecution of these felonious invaders instead of coddling them with soft speech and a refusal to fully cover the carnage.”

See KNOCKOUT GAME, on page 7

The Tax Man Cometh

By James Clingman NNPA Columnist

When the tax man cometh, Black dollars “goeth.” Where will they goeth? Down a myriad of paths in pursuit of new items such as furniture, cars, clothing, and other niceties. But first, unless you do your own tax return or get it done for free by someone, Black dollars goeth to tax preparation firms, the vast majority of which are not owned by Black people.

I can hear the two excuses right now: “I don’t know where to find a Black tax firm;” and “I don’t want ‘them’ to know my business.” The first one I can deal with, but the second excuse just blows my mind.

Nonetheless, let’s see if we can get the conscious ones out there to give a Black-owned company some business. There are many independent Black-owned and operated tax preparation firms, and we should seek them out, especially if they exist locally. But, there is one I have written about for years now that I strongly encourage you to support.

With more than 200 offices in various cities, Compro Tax is the oldest and largest Black-owned tax/financial assistance firm in the country. Go to the website,

comprotax.net, and find the office closest to you, which eliminates the first excuse for some of you.

As for the second excuse, and those among us who are still suffering from psychological enslavement, thinking Black businesses are somehow less competent and beneath the businesses of others, you need serious help. Knowing your business is exactly what you want in a tax firm. The better they know what you are doing, the better they can serve your needs. After all, unless you prepare your own tax return, you are going to have to tell your business to somebody. Why not Compro Tax or some other Blackowned tax business? Whether you file a personal return or a business return, complete with all the forms for rental expense, capital gains, or real estate transactions, Compro Tax professionals can and will provide you with complete and expert service.

In business for more than 30 years and headquartered in Beaumont, Texas, Compro Tax is dedicated to helping its employees and franchise owners obtain the training they need to provide great service to their customers; it also offers great incentives that result in entrepreneurship and wealth-building opportuni-

ties. Compro Tax owners believe in giving back; they built their own convention center (Compro Event Center) in which to hold annual events and training, and they rent space to other local and national groups for their conferences and events, thus, creating jobs and business opportunities in the Beaumont community.

Compro Tax, founded by Mr. Jackie Mayfield, is well ahead of the consciousness curve and has set a great example for other Black businesses to follow; but more importantly, it has built a viable, sustainable, and needs-based business, one that millions of people can use throughout the year, not just during tax filing time. It doesn’t open a storefront in your neighborhood in December and close down in April. It is always there, and its offices are committed to and engaged in their respective communities.

In keeping with my theme of economic empowerment, this is about Black business in general, not just one individual business.

This is about doing what every other group in this country does in a “competently unconscious” way. They support one another and grow their businesses to the point of being able to provide jobs for their own children. What

many of us do is simply get mad and complain about them instead of doing what they are doing.

The more we pass our dollars around to one another, the more empowered we become and the stronger we will be, even to the point of building and maintaining a solid unshakeable economic foundation for our young people.

We will also provide them with the proper examples of what they, in turn, should do.

So, while this is not entirely about Compro Tax, I do encourage you to seek them out, as well as other Black-owned tax preparation firms in your city.

You will develop relationships with some great people, and you will be exposed to an opportunity to open your own tax preparation business. Taxes comprise a recession-proof industry, as you well know, because no matter what the economy does, the tax man will cometh; and your tax dollars, preparation fees and refunds, will goeth to someone.

Make every effort to make them goeth to a Black business.

(Note: Ironically, while writing this I received a call from a White friend of mine asking for See THE TAX MAN, on page 7

The RNC Twitter “Mistake” Wasn’t a Mistake

By Lee A. Daniels NNPA Columnist

The Republican Party’s inability to prevent some of its elected officials and party operatives alike from making racist and sexist remarks and tamp down others’ penchant for cringe-worthy gaffes along those lines necessitates a slight revising of that old saying: It’s always like déjà vu all over again.

Last week, it was – actually for just a moment – the Republican National Committee’s sole turn in the spotlight.

On December 1, it sought via a tweet to mark the anniversary of the 1955 arrest of Rosa Parks, the legendary incident that provoked the famous Montgomery (Ala.) Bus Boycott and the start of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s: “Today we remember Rosa Parks’ bold stand and her role in ending racism,” it said.

The blogosphere and Twitterverse immediately exploded with derisive reminders that racism and racial segregation continued long after the victory of the bus boycott movement in overturning segregation on the Montgomery buses.

Not until the next day did the RNC issue a corrective tweet – implicitly acknowledging it’s worthwhile getting the facts and consequences of history exactly right: “Previous tweet, should have

read ‘Today we remember Rosa Parks’ bold stand and her role in fighting to end racism.’”

Unfortunately, GOP Rep. Duncan Hunter, of California, soon added to the GOP’s reputation for offensiveness when, in a December 2 interview on CSPAN, he declared that lying “is part of Middle Eastern culture.” Hunter added for good measure that “In the Middle Eastern culture it is looked upon with very high regard to get the best deal possible, no matter what it takes, and that includes lying.”

Later, Hunter’s spokesman made a weak stab at damage control, claiming he was only referring to the leaders of Middle Eastern countries, not their entire populations.

Has there been a week in the last five years – since Barack Obama took the oath of office as the 44th president of the United States – in which some Republican politico in a low or high position has not been exposed as the author of a racist, sexist and/or homophobic e-mail, video, tweet, or remark?

There must be some kind of mechanism virtually implanted in the minds of Republicans these days that goes ringgggggg— your turn! compelling someone somewhere in its elective-office or operational structure to make particularly outlandish remarks or claims that underscore the breadth of the backward attitudes that rule

the Party.

If it’s not a Todd Akin, the failed Missouri 2012 Senate candidate, revealing his crackpot “legitimate rape” notions of female physiology, it’s Michelle Bachmann and Rick Santorum rushing during the GOP presidential primary skirmishing to pledge allegiance to the “marriage vow” declaration of the right-wing FAMILY Leader organization. In doing so, they overlooked its despicable assertion that Black children born into slavery before the Civil War, and their parents, were better off than those Black children born outside of marriage today.

If it’s not Kentucky Senator Rand Paul earlier this year wrongly lecturing students at predominantly Black Howard University on some elementary facts of Black American history, it’s Iowa Rep. Steve King weirdly asserting last July that many undocumented immigrants who had come to the U.S. as children had actually been ferrying drugs – producing in them “calves the size of cantaloupes because they’ve been hauling 75 pounds of marijuana across the desert.”

There are many, many more examples one could cite, ranging from the picayune to the deeply disgusting. And they themselves are just a portion of the voluminous evidence that bigotry itself has become a more and more powerful congenital virus within the GOP. These “gaffes” and “mistakes”

GOP officials keep making aren’t gaffes or mistakes. They are at this stage of its existence markers of what the GOP is: the party where bigotry thrives.

Indeed, earlier this year the Republican National Committee itself was victimized by that sickness. It had moved quickly after the November 2012 “shellacking” the Obama campaign machine had given the Republican RomneyRyan ticket to develop a “Growth and Opportunity” agenda that it said would enable the Party to win back the White House in 2016.

Making concerted efforts to appeal to voters of color and other key groups of the winning Democratic coalition was high on the report’s list of recommendations.

The response of the Republican Party leadership? They in effect looked the other way as conservative think-tankers and the GOP-allied punditocracy savaged the document – and immediately began suggesting the GOP could win the White House in 2016 just by doubling down on its appeal to White voters only.

No doubt the large majority of copies of the RNC report are resting comfortably at the bottom of the Potomac River.

And by the time this column will be read, there’ll be one, or two, or three or more similar Republican Party “mistakes” and “gaffes” to add to the list.

The views expressed in the editiorial columns are not necessarily the veiws of The Weekly Press or its staff. Address all opinions and comments to: Letters to the Editior, P.O. Box 74485 Baton Rouge, La. 70874 or E-mail them to: theweeklypress@yahoo.com

Thursday, December 12, 2013 • The Weekly Press • Page 5

MasterCard to Split Stock, Raise Dividend 83%

MasterCard announces a 10-for-1 stock split.

PURCHASE, N.Y. — MasterCard is splitting its stock for the first time since the credit card processor went public more than seven years ago.

The maneuver announced Tuesday is designed to make MasterCard’s stock more attractive by making it less expensive to buy individual shares.

MasterCard also is raising its quarterly dividend by 83%.

The 10-for-1 split calls for stockholders to receive nine additional shares for each one they already own. That means

MasterCard will issue nearly 1.1 billion more shares, an increase that will dramatically drive down its stock price.

MasterCard’s stock jumped 2.8% in after-hours trading to $785 after closing up 0.6% to $763.61 in regular trading Tuesday. At the closing price value, a 10-for-1 split would lower the price to below $80.

The Purchase, N.Y. company’s stock has increased nearly twentyfold from its initial public offering price of $39 in May 2006.

BUSINESS

2014 Standard Mileage Rates for Business, Medical and Moving Announced WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2014 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.

Beginning on Jan. 1, 2014, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be: • 56 cents per mile for business miles driven • 23.5 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes • 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations The business, medical, and moving expense rates decrease one-half cent from the 2013 rates.

The charitable rate is based on statute.

The standard mileage rate for business is based on an annual

higher after investors got some clarity on new banking regulations.

Federal regulators voted to approve the Volcker Rule, which bars banks from betting on the market with their own money.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Securities and Exchange Commission and other federal agencies approved the rule, which will go into efSee DOW, on page 7

rates.

A taxpayer may not use the business standard mileage rate for a vehicle after using any depreciation method under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery Sys-

“Team Working For Success Through Quality Performance”

“Teaming with Shreveport for progress” W.T. Winfield, Manager Civil Engineers Needed 318-222-0639 Shreveport Office 1-866-324-WTAA Toll Free

Dow Falls Below 16,000 as Stocks Pull Back a Bit

Stocks fell on Wall Street Tuesday, sending the Dow Jones industrial average back below its recently attained milestone of 16,000.

The Dow fell 52.40 points, or 0.3%, to 15,973.13. The Standard & Poor’s 500 index fell 5.75 points, or 0.3%, to 1,802.62 a day after it notched another record closing high. The Nasdaq composite dropped 8.26 points, or 0.2%, to 4,060.49.

Banking stocks were mostly

study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. The rate for medical and moving purposes is based on the variable costs.

Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage

tem (MACRS) or after claiming a Section 179 deduction for that vehicle. In addition, the business standard mileage rate cannot be used for more than four vehicles used simultaneously.

These and other requirements for a taxpayer to use a standard mileage rate to calculate the amount of a deductible business, moving, medical, or charitable expense are in Rev. Proc. 201051. Notice 2013-80 contains the standard mileage rates, the amount a taxpayer must use in calculating reductions to basis for depreciation taken under the business standard mileage rate, and the maximum standard automobile cost that a taxpayer may use in computing the allowance under a fixed and variable rate plan.

Seasons Greetings GOOD HANDS working CAN DO GREAT THINGS

together SM

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Questions and/or inquiries from vendors will be accepted until December 16, 2013. Sealed bids are due by Friday, December 27, 2013 – 10:00am (local time) and will be publicly opened in the 2nd floor CATS Board Room at 2250 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802.

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Send resume to: Hansarang Church of Baton Rouge. 7150 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810

WANTED PROJECT ENGINEER MANAGER

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The Baton Rouge Weekly Press ing of the wrong story concerning the Southern University football team winning the Bayou Classic in the December 5, 2013 edition.

We apologize to the readers, SU Football team and anyone offended by the mistake.

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Page 6 • The

Weekly Press • Thursday, December 12, 2013

RELIGION

THE CHURCH LADY REPORT Frame Your World by the Word of God

By Donald Lee

mon sense is not that common anymore, but if you can’t find it then borrow some from the person that was begging from you after they spent all of theirs the first of the year.

Now look there is going to be a really good program going on up there at the Mt. Canaan Church on Evangeline Street.

Carolyn Gee will be hosting her annual Toy and New Clothing Giveaway. Now did ya’ll hear what I said, Toys and new clothes… so here is a smart thing to do. Grab your babies and get yourself on over to Greater Mt. Canaan Baptist Church located at 5820 Evangeline St., Baton Rouge, LA where Rev. Levie “Ash” Wright is the pastor. This event will take place on Saturday, December 21, 2013 starting at 9:00 a.m. and will last until all items are distributed. Everyone is invited and the child MUST be present. No look, the girl is trying to be a blessing so ya’ll do what she says and don’t go over there acting up and being greedy. Get your blessing, did See CHURCH LADY, on page 7

As children of the Most High God, we’ve been empowered by Him, our heavenly Father, to function in this earth in the supernatural, in ways that supersede natural or earthly abilities and that surpass human comprehension.

While this statement may interfere with the theology of many people, the few who actually get this — and who search the scriptures and study the Word diligently — will find themselves discovering a whole other world coming alive to them.

They’ll begin to perceive things that they couldn’t perceive or sense before; they’ll begin to see themselves as who God, our Father, created them to be — supernatural beings clad in natural (or earthly) bodies.

Their way of thinking becomes transfigured — revolutionized.

And there’s an uncanny boldness (see Ephesians 3:12; Acts 4:13) that comes upon them.

It is with this new-found level of understanding of our relationship with our God — our Daddy — that revelation knowledge takes up residence within our inward man. And with this information, we learn how to flow in this earth as our Daddy commands.

Hebrews 11:3 says: Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. (In your

private study time, read slowly and meditate on each verse in the 11th chapter of Hebrews.

Each shares how God moved on the behalf of those who put their faith into practice.)

Now, let’s get back to this third verse in Hebrews 11.

What’s key here is that we see in scripture that “the worlds” were “framed” by the Word of God. Everything we see and can’t see, everything both in this visible world and the invisible world, the things we can understand and the things we cannot: Everything was created by God’s Word.

In the natural (realm), if we want to build a house, we’ve got get lumber from somewhere, right? We’ve got to pay a contractor — things like that. This is an example of us framing our world by our words with things that do appear. In order for us to build a house, the lumber we need is already here; it’s tangible; we can see it; it exists.

So does the contractor.

But all of these things were created by God from nothing. He spoke them and they appeared. The Holy Spirit reminds us that God created us to be just like Him (Genesis 1:26).

He loves us. He has adopted us as His children through the works of Jesus. Since we have crowned Him as Lord and Savior of our lives, we now operate in His splendor.

Turn to John 1:1-14. Read the first 14 verses (King James Version), but start off by emphasizing the first three: In the

beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made.

The same three verses in the Amplified Bible say: In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. He was present originally with God. All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him was not even one thing made that has come into being.

Jesus is the Word. Jesus was the Word of God made flesh. In other Words, the Word of God dwelt among the people here in the earth, in the person of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the sent One of God. We see the will of God through the example of His Word, Jesus the Christ.

We’ve accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior. Our mandate now, the charge that the Christ, the Word of God, has given us is to allow Him, the Word of God, to be expressed through us.

We are made up of flesh and blood, right? When Christ was here, He came in the “flesh.” He had a fleshly body, an earthly, mortal body.

Yet people were able to read the Word of God and know the will of God through the example that He laid out before us with His walk. Thus, He was the Word of God, the will of God,

By Carolyn Gee Baton Rouge, LA - Carolyn Gee will host her annual Toy and New Clothing Giveaway at Greater Mt. Canaan Baptist Church located at 5820 Evangeline Street and Rev. Levie “Ash” Wright is the pastor.

This event will take place on Saturday December 21, 2013 starting at 9:00 a.m. and will last until all items are distributed.

Everyone is invited and the child MUST be present.

We are asking for a donation of can goods to help feed the needy but not mandatory for a child to receive a gift.

For more information, please call 225-229-0762.

EMAIL YOUR NEWS ARTICLES TO

See FRAME, on page 7

thewpres@bellsouth.net

Hey babies, how ya’ll doing. It is cold out there Chile!

I almost froze my buns off and then on top of that it’s been well too; OMG! Well, I hope that all my sweeties have been keeping warm and dry. I need all of ya’ll to survive you hear me.

I’m praying for you though that God would keep you all saved and pure. Well I know that it’s a little late on that one for most, but God is a restorer babies just look to Jesus because he makes all things new. Glory hallelujah!

While we are on the subject of prayer; I have a favor I need from all my readers out there.

I need you all to send up some prayers for the Bishop; Bishop Ivory J. Payne. Yeah the same one who had on that purple suit.

Would ya’ll just talk to the father a little bit on his behalf and ask him to take really good care of him because we miss him and he’s still got plenty of work to do. Yes he does, and we need him to show up and give us that testimony really soon. So we love you Bishop and we need you to come on back and take care of your people. We miss you talking to us, and preaching to us, and taking care of us. Now you know that sheep can get really silly when the Shepherd is not around so come on back to us real soon.

Now I know that all of you are getting ready for the holidays, but like I told you last time, please do not go out and spend all of your bill monies and be crying broke on January 1st.

Now I do realized that com-

Toys and Clothing Giveaway at the Greater Mt. Canaan Baptist Church

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. - Hebrews 10:25 Let the community know whats happing at your place of worship. Email your church event or religious organization news to The Weekly Press @ theweeklypress@yahoo.com or call 225-775-2002

Email your church event or religious organization news to The Weekly Press @ thewpress@yahoo.com or call 225-775-2002

Pastor Rev. Dr. Roosevelt Florida, Jr. Co-Pastor Rose J. Florida

VISION CHRISTIAN CENTER, INTERNATIONAL Seeking New Members for the Hope Christian Center 5013 Windfall Court Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70812 Reverend Henry Martin, Pastor Service Hour: 12:00 noon Wednesday

Telephone: 225-355-8194

1047 Rosenwald Road Baton Rouge, LA 70807 Telephone: (225) 774-8125 • E-Mail - visionchristianc@bellsouth.net Sunday Worship.........................................................................10:00 a.m.

Holy Communion2nd Sunday.................................................... 10:00 a.m.

Intercessory Prayer Wednesday................................................. 6:00 p.m.

Mid-Week ServiceWednesday.................................................... 7:00 p.m.

NEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH 5856 Greenwell Springs Road • Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70806 Telephone: (225) 926-0246 • Facsimille: (225) 925-8022 Toll Free: 888-700-6174 Websites: www.newhopebr.com Rev. Leo Cyrus Sr., Pastor Order Of Services Sunday Worship...................................................... 11:00 A.M. Holy Communion.................................. 3rd Sunday 6:00 P.M. Sunday School..........................................................9:00 A.M. Bible Study................................................Thrusday 7:00 P.M.

Thursday, December 12, 2013 • The Weekly Press • Page 7

Letter

from page 1

blessed that Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela has passed this way.

We shall forever cherish his life, his legacy and his memory.

Leon Coleman Sr., President Louisiana Black Publishers Association

Marge

from page 2

Our ears too deaf to hear the hymn Which angels sing in vain, “The Christ is born again.”

O Jesus, pitiful, draw near, That even we may see The Little Child who knew not fear; Thus would we picture Thee Unmarred by agony.

O’er death and pain triumphant yet Bid Thou Thy harpers play, That we may hear them, and forget Sorrow and all dismay, And welcome Thee to stay With us on Christmas Day. Have a blessed weekend. Enjoy the loveliness of this season.

Love, Marge

Knockout Game Project 21’s Martin adds: “I would like to commend those blacks in our community who have already joined Project 21 in publicly condemning these assaults, such as former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson. I would encourage more public figures in our community to speak out when it is needed and not just when it’s politically expedient.”

These comments from the membership of the Project 21 black leadership network come from a recent blog post posted on Amy Ridenour’s National Cen-

AIDS

ter Blog, which can be found here. The post contains longer comments from these three, as well as critiques of members of the media who seem willing to downplay the potential severity of knockout game attacks. The blog also contains past statements made by Martin and other members denouncing knockout game behavior.

Project 21, a leading voice of black conservatives for over two decades, is sponsored by the National Center for Public Policy Research (http://www. nationalcenter.org).

from page 4

nity. Launched in 2009 by CDC and the White House, AAALI is a five-year national campaign to combat complacency about HIV and AIDS in the United States.

Urban League affiliates around the country also offer HIV awareness services and campaigns in

The Tax Man the number of “that tax firm you told me about.” It was Compro Tax in Cincinnati, Robin Lewis, Owner. I encourage everyone to use Black-owned businesses; their success is America’s success.)

Jim Clingman, founder of the

Church Lady you hear me? I said get your blessing and leave something for the next person please. Alright my darlings I love ya’ll, but you know I tell it like it TIS. Now they are also asking you to bring a donation of can goods to help feed the needy but it is not mandatory for a child to receive a gift. Still if you can bring a little something. It is always so good to feel like you are giving something even when you are receiving. For more information, please call 225-229-0762.

Okay my sweeties I am going wrap it up for now, but

Frame

their local communities. While much progress has been made, the fight against AIDS is not over.

Marc H. Morial, former mayor of New Orleans, is president and CEO of the National Urban League.

from page 4 Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and can be reached through his Web site, blackonomics.com.

from page 6 make sure that ya’ll get to church this weekend. I know that some of ya’ll stayed home this past weekend. It was nasty out there though. Now look I plan to get with you next week, but in the event that I don’t I want to wish everybody an early Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year too. It’s not over yet, but still get ready because I believe that this is going to be one of the best ones yet! Pray for me everybody cause ya’ll know I need prayer. Stay saved and safe; be blessed, and I’ll see ya’ll in church.

from page 6

made flesh. We now must be the Word of God made flesh, just as Christ was the Word who dwelt in the earth in the flesh.

Don’t cringe. The Spirit is saying that the Word of God abides in us. Therefore, we must be living examples here in the earth for others to see. The thing is not for them to see us and try to live like us, but to see Christ in us and begin to live their lives in and for Him. Donald Lee is founderpastor of Kingdom Living Christian Center in Dallas. To hear his sermons live, call (218) 862-4590 (conference code: 279498#) at 10 a.m. (CST)

DOW

from page 4

Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays.

KLCC has plans for a “Cowboy Church” ministry. Plans for this ministry, coming soon, call for it to be held once a month at a location to be announced.

One Sunday (or Saturday) per month, cowboys and cowgirls would literally ride their horses to church. Cowboys and cowgirls at heart (who may not have horses) would be able to attend this service wearing Western attire. Pastor Lee can be reached at pastordonjlee@ yahoo.com. Also visit him at http://www.kingdomlivingchristiancenter.org.

healt Quit-Smoking Drugs Safe for Your Heart

apart. You must continue to hold therefore, humble yourselves on to your faith and stay before under the mighty hands of God, the Lord. But, it may be that the that he may exalt you in due time, time has come when you may “casting all your cares upon him, need to take some quality time for he cares for you,”(1st Peter Smokingand is the leading cause for yourself spend some of 5:6-7). time with death God. world-wide.

After you finished having your ofthat preventable Gethalf on your beforesmokGod tantrum. You may have a stopped About of allknees long-term andwill tell him of how you feelers die because of are their ad- up nose and swollen eyes and (NAPSM)-A survey commissioned ing inside. maybenews the words diction.

ButAnd the good is that mucus running down your lip by two leading health organizations wont come outcurrent exactlysmokers as you and dried tears on your face, but nearly 70% of found that although two out of three wish but you can have a good you’ll feel better after emptying want to quit, says the CDC. African Americans (61 percent) exweeping, wailing falling, And using an crying effective treat- yourself of those things which pressed concern about developing out tantrum those ment to help and kickgive the all habit can had been heavy on your heart. heart disease and two out of five (40 problems to him.

Sometimes we go for weeks almost double or triple one’s percent) expressed concern about While are praying, you or months trying to take matters chance of you success.

Replacement developing Alzheimer’s, only about might forget of the things therapies likesome the nicotine patch into our hands and try to solve our one in 20 are aware that heart health that vexed you but God knows own problems.

We are not super or gum, or medications like the is linked to brain health. what you are going through.(sold he humans; we can’t handle everyantidepressant buproprion the Alzheimer’s Association is can read the pain, which flows thing alone.

We need God’s help. as Wellbutrin or Zyban) and vajoining forces with the American through your tears. even though We have to let go of those siturenicline (commonly known as heart Association to educate African he knows what’s troubling you, ations and let God handle them.

Chantix), can help reduce one’s Americans that by managing their he still wants to tell him about there are some things we can’t cravings to smoke and deal with cardiovascular risk, they may also it and bring your problems and humanly do anything about. withdrawal symptoms. strengthen their cognitive health. burdens to him.

Headlines in recent years “What’s good for your heart is good for your brain,” says Jennifer have questioned the cardiovasManly, Ph.D., Alzheimer’s Associacular risks of these drugs. But tion spokesperson. “every healthy new research says that these drugs heartbeat pumps about one-fifth carry little risk of heart attack or protect against serious cardioHe also added, “there isn’tofa cause side effects like behavior hildRen from page 4 your blood to your brain to carry stroke. vascular events. But the study huge risk that we’re likely to on be changes, depression, hostility, the daily processes of thinking, prob- and suicidal thoughts.

The new meta-analysis pub- authors cannot explain why. missing” when it comes to these ering all children. of the nation must lem solving and remembering.” lished this week in the journal the citizens “Undoubtedly, the benefits therapies.

However, the FDA also adthe CDF Action Council, build- demand that our leaders free our “By the year 2030,specifically the number of Circulation is the largest analysis of quitting smoking outweigh When looking at mitted that it was unclear whether ingitsonkind, the best practices states children from therisks false ideological African Americans ageproblem 65 or olderare is some of these effects weren’t of with study inauthors any potential from smok- the heart, “the main and lessons learned about children and political tugs of war among expected to more than double to 6.9 surveying 63 different clinical ing cessation therapies,” said Dr. side effects, not heart attack and actually symptoms of nicotine fallingencompassing through the bureaucratic who put excess profits ahead million,” said emil Matarese, M.D., trials more than those Edward Mills, co-author of the death,” said Dr. Russell Luep- withdrawal . cracks of Medicaid and SChiP, of children’s lives.

American heart Association spokes30,500 smokers. Unlike previ- study and an associate profes- ker, spokesman for the American Mills acknowledged that the strongly urged Congress enact how well did Congress protect person. “Although Alzheimer’s is ous studies, which onlytolooked sor of medicine at the Stanford Heart Association.

“The risks are risk for suicide and mental health the All healthy Children Act, children in 2007? Not well enough: not part of normal aging, age is the at the effectiveness and safety of University School of Medicine. low, and if you look at the benissues remains, “even though all S. 1564/h.r. 1688, introduced 276 Members of Congress had greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s each individual drug, this analysis Mills, along withConother efits of quitting are assessments have not demonby representative Bobby Scott good CDF Action Council disease.

So it is smoking, important they that Afcompared all house three and methods study authors, hasscores consulted than the take benefit.”

(D-VA) in the Senatorof gressional Scorecard of 80 to greater rican Americans steps now to strated an effect of these therapies smoking cessation.

Merck, Pfizer, Takeda, Novartis, The findings seem to disease, counter on suicidality. The current thinkBernie Sanders (i-Vt) in the Sen- percent or higher, and 198 of those decrease their risk of heart found thatprovide none of had or GlaxoSmithKline, which all the lastresearch meta-anlysis of Chantix ate. The the study measure would stellar scores of 100 percent. which has shown could ing is that the stress of quitting these three therapies – gum, patch But a link between manufacture back in 2011,thewhich the Research may be ashows causative factor.”heart and brain heal comprehensive benefits including 231 memberssmoking scored 60 cessation percent also decrease risk offound cognitive and antidepressants increased drugs.

However, none of the drug increased the risk of heart What all the doctors do brain functio heart function could lead to impaired dental and mental health, simpli- or lower—a failing grade from our decline.” the of major cardiovascular companies fiedrisk bureaucracy, and a national school days. were involved with attacks. Mills said that this new agree on is that quitting smokevents.

Those Zyban,up Wellthis particular analysis. study is more precise because of ing doesn’t have a blanket preeligibility plantaking for families to Whether Members of Congress butrin and Chantix had lowest risk are liberal, Dr. Jonathan Samet, direc- its comparative method, allowing scription, but rather needs to be 300 percent of the federal poverty conservative or modoflevel. any We serious event, tor ofDemocrat, the University of Southern for “greater power and precision” individualized for the patient. thankheart the 62 housewhile co- erate; republican or those taking replacement California’schildren Institute forall Global of results.

According to Luepker, that most sponsors fornicotine their support. how- independent, need of therapy, such as or a single patch, them ever, we regret thatgum neither to vote, lobby, speak for and Health, argued that a large metaWellbutrin, Zyban and Chan- commonly means a combination had a slightly increased for protect house republican nor anyrisk other them.

Adults need to listen analysis is difficult and imprecise. tix also come with increased of both drugs and behavioral ther(NAPSi)-here’s worth diabetes, particularly when minor side effects like rapidforor carefully Senator joined them to apush what candidates say “I think to they’ve done technically mental health risk.anInalert 2009, the ness apy, of like counseling.

“If you can increased p paying attention to: According to it is left undiagnosed and untreated. coverage heartbeat. for all children. they will do for children and famiirregular a good job - but there’s just not US Food and Drug Administra- use the two of them, a program delay or pr the American Diabetes Association the day is held on the fourth tuesday diabetes. the CDF Action Council strongly and, once theylike are in office, The study results even sug- lies as much as we terms of tion required black box labeling plus drug, you’re more likely to (ADA), learning your risk for type 2 of every March.

Among supports overdue health to hold them gest thatlong Wellbutrin may coveven we theneed evidence,” he accountable. said. for all three drugs because they be successful.” diabetes could save your life. on that day, people are encour- for type 2 erage for everyone in America as Please thank your Members of ConDiabetes is a serious disease that aged to take the Diabetes risk test, weight, sed soon as possible—because children gress with scores of 80 percent or strikes nearly 21 million children either with paper and pencil or online. 45 and hav cannot wait. As SChiP comes up above and let those with scores of and adults in the U.S. it is named the risk test requires users to answer diabetes. Af again for reauthorization in early 60 percent or below know you are the “silent killer” because one-third seven simple questions about age, Native Ame 2009, we hope every Member of dissatisfied with their performance. of those with the disease--more than 6 weight, lifestyle and family history-- islanders a Congress will insist covering The U.S. Foodonand Drug And please convey that same mesmillion--do not know they have it. all potential risk factors for diabetes. are women every child andapproved pregnant mother Administration a break- sage to each presidential candidate.

For many, diagnosis may come People scoring 10 points or more are more than now bydrug enacting and adequately through Friday to treat chronic We must demand that our leaders seven to 10 years after the onset of at a high risk for type 2 diabetes and the Dia funding the provisions of the All commit to children as a condition hepatitis C virus infection. type 2 diabetes. early diagnosis is are encouraged to talk with a health healthy Children Act. is the first of our vote.

Sovaldi (sofosbuvir) critical for successful treatment and care professional.

Specious that wetocould drug that hasclaims been shown safely can delay or prevent some of the An estimated 54 million Amerinot find the money—$70 billion Marian Wright Edelman is Presiand effectively treat certain types complications such as heart diseases, cans have pre-diabetes. those with over five years—to alla dent of the Children’s Defense Fund of hepatitis C infectioncover without blindness, kidney disease, stroke and pre-diabetes have blood glucose levchildren is belied by that amount and its Action Council whose Leave need for interferon, the FDA said. amputation. els higher than normal but not high spentHepatitis in eleven C months for tax cuts No Child Behind® mission is to is a viral disease that’s one reason the ADA holds enough to be diagnosed with type for the top one percent of richest that causes inflammation of the ensure every child a Healthy Start, the American Diabetes Alert® Day, 2 diabetes.

Americans and in seven months a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe liver, which can lead to diminished a one-day wake-up call to inform the early intervention via lifestyle for the iraq War. Wefailure. do not About have Start and a Moral Start in life and liver function or liver American public about the seriouschanges such as weight loss and a money problem in America: We successful passage to adulthood 3.2 million Americans are infected have a priorities and political will with the help of caring families with hepatitis C, according to the deficit. it is time for all adults to and communities.

No Centers forhealth Disease Control and protect the of our children.

Prevention.

If you Sovaldi is the second drug that scree adio from thealk FDA has approved in thepage past4 scree two weeks to treat chronic hepatitis Callvirus infection.

Olysio (simeprefunny or remotely appropri- we forget o’reilly’s less-thanPresen vir) approved 22. informed comments regarding a ate was about the useonofNovember a lynching of Our Dr. John Ward, director of the Land Line (225) 356-0703 reference about Michelle obama,’’ dinner he shared last year with Division of Viral Hepatitis at the made Cell Phone (225) 235-6955 he said. ‘’it’s - i’m speechless.’’ Sharpton at Sylvia’s in chronic harlem?

FDA approves Sovaldi for hepatitis C without interferon. U.S. Food and Drug Administration chief Margaret Hamburg.

CDC, in a statement called this a GSRASAC As President Bush pointed out o’reilly expressed surprise over E-mail: Goodshepherdbapt@bellsouth. “landmark advance in the treatment so eloquently during the Black how was to other is another less common tionsimilarSylvia’s can lead to long-term health fected, net Hours: Mon-Thurs 8am –risk.

8 pm clay-colored bowel movements, of hepatitis C, opening op- restaurants history Month event, up thenew noose in even New death, York according restauIt may take several years for joint pain and jaundice, according problems and portunities to stopthan the spread Breast represents ‘’more a tool ofof rants. apparent Substance to to theAbuse CDC. Center to the CDC. The virus is spread symptoms to become Good Shepherd this virus theofravages of this primarily Tuesday murder butand a tool intimidation’’ ‘’there wasn’t one person in withOutpatient hepatitis / Inpatient The disease is the most comwhen individuals have individuals infected Intensive Therapy disease.”

10am – to generations of African-Ameri- Sylvia’s whothe was screaming, contact with blood of someone C. Most people with the disease mon cause of cirrhosis and liver For Drugs, Alcohol, Anger Management newnot therapies only work cans.But Nooses only robbed someif ‘M-Fer, i want more iced tea,’’’ have no symptoms until liver dam- cancer, and the leading reason for who is infected.

LSUHSC people receive of theiractually lives but manytreatment, of their he said. becomes apparent. liver transplantation in the country, Sharing needles or equipment age 1401 N. 2873 Mission Drive Rev. Donald Britton, MA, LAC he added. peace of mind. the Washington Symptoms may include fever, according to the CDC. Hepatitis C toAs inject drugs is howPost’s mostrobpeople Baton R Baton Rouge, LA 70805 Clinical Director ‘’As a civil society, we must observed on MSNBC “The potential of these and inson who sadly become infected acquire the fatigue, loss of appetite, vomiting, causes about 15,000 deaths each (225) 315-0740 Hayes, Overseer understand thatadvances noose displays February, ‘’All you can go by other treatment hinges indisease. nausea, abdominal pain, dark urine,Bishop year Harris in the United States. and lynching deeply and his actions.

And entirely on our jokes abilityare to get more is his words The disease can also be spread Breast offensive. they and are into wrong.

And keeps saying these things that people screened care,” he hethrough sexual contact, but the risk Friday, M they “Right have no place inAmericans America sound pretty darn racist to me.’’ said. now, most is believed to be low, according to 10am – today,’’ he said. has talk radio learned anything with hepatitis C don’t access treat- the CDC. Sharing personal items Neither o’reilly nor ingraham from imus’ decline and fall? of ment because they have no idea such as razors or toothbrushes, Leo S. B has beeninfected.” reprimanded by their re- course not, because it didn’t take they’re Center which may have had contact with spective employers evenCthough too terribly long to get a Chronic hepatitis infec- imus 950 E. W the blood of someone who is inthe Fox News personality did offer new gig.

Baton R a half-hearted apology. our nation’s media outlets At least ingraham didn’t drop should not provide a platform for the l-word but her suggestion that racialhostility and hateful speech Breast Sharpton, a former presidential now or in the future. What kind of Tuesday Indications For Treatment: candidate and respected member of messageare we sending to our chil5pm – 7 the African-American community dren, our nation and our world?

• Low Back Pain Woman and beyond, is a petty thief reeks in such an historic election year, • Pinched Nerves 9050 Ai of race-baiting and negative ste- we cannot stand aside and allow • Pain in Legs Baton R reotyping of African-Americans individuals to use the airwaves • Numbness and black men in particular. as an outlet for insensitive and • Burning Sensation But it’s hardly the first time ei- misguidedcommentary. if you ther has ventured into questionable hear something that offends you, • Muscle Spasms and offensive territory. how can speak up.

• Nervousness If you care for children of working parents • Arthritis Pains • Scoliosis or students attending school... receive money Dr Paul Matthews yStem from page 4 • Sleepiness to pay for feeding of the children • Disc Syndrome cally pointed out that changes concerned with the conditions which occur in a human being is at Jetson. it is happening there. office hours: 9:00 a.m. — 12:00 noon redirected to pull from the core What i do know is that most of 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday – Friday of his own humanity to reaffirm these youth can be changed, from self worth and purpose. he will contrition in a prepatory school L 6233 harry Drive, Suite C • Baton rouge, Louisiana 70806 then by nature acquire the will to for Angola to rehabilitation for do for himself and others. a positive life that may lead to a Space not available cover life of meritorious That is “Thisisinstitution is antoequal opportunity provider andglory. employer” concerns of so many I See It! Notpeople limited tothe lowWay income

What’s Good For Your Heart Is G

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Could You Be At Risk?

FDA Approves Breakthrough Drug for Treatment of Hepatitis C

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Lululemon Athletica’s founder said he would relinquish the company’s chairmanship after his comments about the body type of potential customers caused a backlash. The yoga apparel retailer fell $1.22, or 1.7%, to $69.12.

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fect by July 2015 for the nation’s largest banks.

Goldman Sachs was up $2.06, or 1.2%, to $169.73 while Morgan Stanley was up 38 cents, or 1.3%, to $30.77.

In other corporate news,

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Weekly Press • Thursday, December 12, 2013

SPORTS Jaguars Claim SWAC Title In 34-27 Thriller HOUSTON – It is what Southern quarterback Dray Joseph said he did throughout his career on The Bluff.

It is also what the Jaguars did late against Jackson State in the Toyota Southwestern Athletic Conference Championship Game Saturday. Joseph’s 16-yard touchdown pass to Lee Doss in the second overtime lifted the Jaguars past the Tigers 34-27 at Reliant Stadium.

“The biggest thing is just to remain poised,” said Joseph, the SWAC’s co-Offensive Player of the Year. “The whole season we’ve faced adversity, so we understand how to just remain calm in those types of situations. It just enabled us to be successful.”

The win gives Southern (9-4) its 18th SWAC title and first conference crown since 2003 while Jackson State (8-4) suffered its second-straight overtime SCG loss.

Joseph threw for 337 yards and three scores – eclipsing Bryant Lee’s career touchdown pass mark – to earn SCG Offensive MVP honors. The former West St. John Ram also eclipsed Quincy Richard’s record for single season passing yards throwing for 3,573 yards.

Doss finished with 10 catches for 125 yards and one score while Willie Quinn caught seven passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns.

“For us to start 0-2 and some of our own beloved writing us off, to end our season as 2013 SWAC champions … it’s an honor,” head coach Dawson Odums said. “We watched a film this morning that showed them all the work they put in just to remind them we’re

Courtesy: David Kent, Athletics Media Relations Student Photographer

supposed to be here and we had just as much right to win this game as Jackson State did.”

Southern led 20-10 in the third quarter until Jackson State swung momentum late in the quarter. Clayton Moore threw a 28-yard touchdown pass to Zach Pendleton to cut the Jags’ lead to 20-17 with 2:49 remaining in the quarter. On Southern’s next

possession, Lenard Tillery was stripped near the Jaguar 11-yard line and Antonio Sutton scooped up the fumble and scored to give the Tigers a 24-20 lead at the 2:36 mark.

The Jaguars opened the fourth quarter on their own 1-yard line and began to methodically march downfield. Joseph engineered a 20-play, 99-yard drive, capped

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by Darrius Coleman’s one-yard touchdown plunge with 4:57 remaining in regulation. Gregory Pittman’s PAT gave the Jaguars a 27-24 lead.

JSU drove deep into Jaguar territory in the final minute of regulation. A Southern facemask penalty gave the Tigers a first-andgoal near the Jaguars’ five-yard line with 24 seconds remaining.

However, Moore nearly fumbled the ball away on first down, and Christian Allen sacked Moore near the Jaguars’ 20 on second down.

Ryan Diesing’s 37-yard field goal as time expired sent the game into overtime.

Southern’s defense came up with a big play to end JSU’s first overtime possession. Moore’s pass to Pendleton was tipped up and

Anthony Balancier intercepted it to end the JSU possession. Southern tried to win the game on the leg of Pittman, but his 39-yard attempt was blocked by Canard Brown to send the game into a second overtime.

Southern’s offense took over in the second overtime. Joseph hooked up with Doss on thirdand-7 to give the Jaguars a first down near the 14-yard line. Two plays later, Joseph found Doss open along the sideline for a 16yard touchdown toss. Pittman’s PAT gave the Jags a 34-27 lead.

“We owed it all to these seniors,” Odums said. “They’ve started something special this year. They didn’t give up. They didn’t give in. Look at what happens when you stay together.”

A Southern pass interference call gave JSU a first-and-goal at the seven-yard line. The Southern defense swarmed JSU running back Tommy Gooden near the five-yard line, and Moore misfired on a pass on second-and-goal. The Jaguars’ defense stuffed Moore near the five on third-and-goal, setting up an all-or-nothing fourth down for JSU. Moore scrambled to his right and threw for Gooden in the end zone, but Gooden was out of bounds as he caught the ball.

“I was bracketing No. 82 (Pendleton), their best receiver.

So I had inside coverage,” said Balancier, who earned defensive MVP honors for his 11-tackle performance. “I don’t know how the running back got out of the backfield. I saw that his feet weren’t in.

So I was like ‘Yeah, we won this game.’ It was a good call by coach Odums, and we just executed it.”